Honiton's mayor, Cllr David Foster with his bear currently named The Mayor's Bear or 'MB' for short. MB has been living in the library promoting the name the bear competition. Pictured with David is Frances Lemmer (first assistant librarian) and casting their entries are David's sons Taven and Daniel. Ref mhh 5723-43-12AW. To order your copy of this photograph, go to www.midweekherald.co.uk and click on myphotos24

Competition launched to name Honiton’s very first Mayor’s Bear.

Honiton's mayor, Cllr David Foster with his bear currently named The Mayor's Bear or 'MB' for short. MB has been living in the library promoting the name the bear competition. Ref mhh 5725-43-12AW. To order your copy of this photograph, go to www.midweekherald.co.uk and click on myphotos24

Play a part in Honiton’s history by giving the town’s very first mayor’s bear an official name.

The mayor’s bear, or MB for short, has been nameless since he was introduced into civic life by town mayor Councillor David Foster in June.

Now residents, of all ages - especially children - are invited to make name suggestions for the bear.

To date, he has proved a great hit with people in the town and even had a customised outfit made, which includes a mayoral chain and an authentic piece of Honiton Lace.

“By naming this new civic leader you can play a major part in Honiton’s history,” says Mr Foster.

“I think he wants a name and he needs a name.”

It is hoped the bear will be passed onto future mayors of the town.

MB has already spent time with pupils at Honiton Primary School and is spending two weeks at Honiton Library where he has been catching up on his reading.

He was presented with a reading medal for his efforts, which is proudly on display round his neck at the library.

A special naming ceremony will be held on Saturday, November 3, at the library. To mark the occasion, there will be a teddy bears’ story time where children and adults are invited to bring along their own furry companions.

The event starts from 10.30am and a name will be chosen for MB at 11am.

Suggestion forms are available from the library and the person with the winning suggestion will win a £10 voucher to spend at Honiton Toy Shop.